defensive

views updated May 18 2018

de·fen·sive / diˈfensiv/ • adj. 1. used or intended to defend or protect: troops in defensive positions. ∎  (in sports) relating to or intended as defense.2. very anxious to challenge or avoid criticism: he was very defensive about that side of his life.PHRASES: on the defensive expecting or resisting criticism or attack.DERIVATIVES: de·fen·sive·ness n.

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